Upcoming Workshops and Programming from Office of Children and Families
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Kindergarten Readiness Newsletter
FREE Community Baby Shower
Parents expecting a baby are invited to connect with community partners for resources on breastfeeding, safe sleep, fatherhood and more. Parents-to-be will also receive essential baby supplies to help their little ones get a healthy start in life. This event is open to Howard County residents only. July 26, 10 a.m.- Noon. 9830 Patuxent Woods Drive, Columbia. Register by Wednesday, July 16 at bit.ly/HoCoBabyShower
Are We There Yet? Travel Activities for Children
Traveling by plane, train, or automobile this summer? Join us as we show you how to prepare hands-on travel activities to keep your little ones engaged, learning and having fun while getting from “here to there.” Get tips on entertainment ideas, survival strategies and practical advice to help make your upcoming trip a success! Thursday, July 17, 7 p.m. Free virtual workshop, register here
Raising Resilient Kids
Build your child’s emotional resilience through everyday experiences and develop strong coping skills. Learn strategies to support your child as they navigate transitions and manage overwhelming emotions like worry, disappointment, failure, and sadness. Discover how to help your child prepare for challenges, regulate their feelings and bounce back with confidence and strength. Monday, July 21, 7 p.m. Free virtual workshop, register here
Brain Builders: Optimizing Your Infant’s Early Brain Development Babies are primed to start learning from the day they are born and there is ample science about how to support them during this critical time in their development. Gain an understanding of an infant’s developing brain and how simple daily interactions and activities are the learning moments that support those brain connections. Learn how creating a secure attachment with your baby helps to create effective learning pathways. Explore the many resources in the community that will support your family on this developmental journey to help ensure that your baby starts off with a healthy and strong beginning. Tuesday, July 29,
1 p.m. Free virtual workshop, register here
The Dad Check In Join us on the first and third Thursday of the month for a one hour virtual meet up on where dads with children ages 0-5 connect, share, and support one another in a safe, welcoming space. It’s your time to recharge, laugh and build community with other awesome dads.
Thursdays; July 3 & 17, 7-8 p.m. Register here
Infant Discovery Play: Join us for a morning of tummy time and sensory activities for infants 0–12 months. Tuesdays; July 1 – July 15, 9 – 9:45 a.m. Register here
Summer Story Time Series: Join us for Story Time Adventures—a fun weekly session with a story, a song, and a themed activity! It's a great way for young children to enjoy reading, get creative, and make new friends. Mondays July 7 -14, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Register here
Drop in Play Group: Children and their families are invited to explore and play at our Family Support Center! Parents must stay with their children. This is a great opportunity for children to meet new friends and parents to network! Wednesday, July 9, 10 – 11a.m. Register here
Popsicles at the Park: We are heading to the park! Meet us at Western Regional Park: 14800 Carrs Mill Rd, Cooksville, MD 21723 For a fun morning of playground time and popsicles! Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. Wednesday, July 16, 9:30 – 11a.m. Register here
English for Life, Work, and Family: Learn every day, practical English and develop skills in listening, speaking, reading, writing, and grammar. 12-week series. Childcare will be provided for children 0-5 years old. Mondays and Wednesdays; July 21 – October 2, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Register here
Creating a Traveling Kit for Kids: Create engaging, travel-friendly activities to keep your child busy and learning along the way. You’ll also pick up useful tips, clever entertainment ideas, and practical advice to help make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Wednesday, July 23, 1 – 2p.m. Register here
Under the Sea Learning Party: Explore marine life through exciting water play, watch live feeds from the aquarium, and create colorful ocean-inspired crafts. Join us for an afternoon celebrating the wonders of life “under the sea” — perfect for curious kids and families ready to learn and play together!
Tuesday, July 29, 12:30 – 1:30p.m. Register here
Dads in the Park: Come out and enjoy an exciting afternoon as we celebrate fathers and their little ones, ages 0-5. This family friendly event features lawn games, delicious snacks, frozen treats and so much more!
Thursday, July 31, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Lake Elkhorn Park. Register here
The Basics Howard County
Research shows that 90% of brain growth happens by age five. The Basics provide five simple areas parents can focus on to make the most of these early years. Parents in Howard County can receive free tips directly to their phone to support their child by signing up for Basics Insights. These weekly text messages provide suggestions based on your child’s developmental stage, from birth to age five (available in English or Spanish). https://www.howardcountymd.gov/children-families/basics
Howard County Parent Pages Newsletter
Sign up for the Parent Pages, a newsletter created by the Howard County Office of Children and Families for parents, caregivers and agencies working with families. Each monthly issue features information to help parents and caregivers learn how to promote positive parenting for children’s development. It highlights workshops, local resources, events, parenting information, and agency programs targeted to help families grow and thrive in Howard County.